Union Budget 2026 was presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, marking her ninth consecutive budget and outlining the government’s commitment to inclusive growth. The budget is guided by three key kartavyas aimed at accelerating economic development while supporting the poor, underprivileged, and disadvantaged sections of society. While income tax payers were hoping for rebates or changes in standard deduction, the government chose to focus on indirect tax relief, healthcare afford

Union Budget 2026 is being presented live from Parliament, marking a significant moment in India’s economic calendar. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is delivering her ninth consecutive Union Budget, continuing a historic streak that reflects policy continuity and long-term fiscal planning. The budget session is being closely watched by policymakers, economists, businesses, and citizens across

The United States government entered a partial shutdown early Saturday after Congress failed to approve a full federal budget for fiscal year 2026 before the midnight deadline. While the lapse in funding has triggered formal shutdown procedures across several federal departments, congressional leaders from both parties indicated the disruption is likely to be brief, with a Senate-backed agreement expected to move through the House early next week. As a result of the missed deadline, an estim

As the Union Budget 2026 draws closer, India’s gems and jewellery industry has stepped up its demands for policy reforms aimed at reviving demand, supporting employment and improving transparency. Industry leaders believe the upcoming Budget can play a decisive role in restoring consumer confidence at a time when global trade uncertainty and high prices have made buyers cautious. With jewellery being both a cultural and economic mainstay, the sector is urging the government to adopt growth-

The Budget Session 2026 of the Indian Parliament commenced on Wednesday with President Droupadi Murmu addressing the joint sitting of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha in New Delhi. The opening of the session marks the beginning of one of the most significant legislative periods of the year, during which the government outlines its economic vision and policy priorities. Lawmakers from across political parties assembled as the President delivered her customary address, setting the tone for deb

New Jersey mayors are expressing deep concern following President Donald Trump’s announcement that his administration plans to terminate federal funding for sanctuary cities and states that resist his immigration policies. The move, which is expected to take effect on February 1, could have wide-ranging consequences for several municipalities across the state and has renewed debate over the balance of power between federal authority and local governance. New Jersey is home to multip

Brookfield Zoo is offering Chicago-area residents and visitors an excellent opportunity to explore one of the region’s most popular attractions without paying an admission fee, as the zoo has announced free entry on most days throughout January and February. The expanded winter free admission schedule gives families, students, and animal enthusiasts a chance to enjoy a meaningful outdoor experience during the colder months while keeping expenses low. With a wide variety of exhibits and thousan

The Department of Government Efficiency has rejected claims that it was quietly dissolved months before the end of its contract, calling recent reports inaccurate and misleading. The agency, known for its focus on reducing federal spending and reviewing large segments of the government’s budget, responded after speculation arose regarding its operational status. A recent report had cited an unnamed United States official asserting that the department “doesn’t exist,” prompting widespr

India is preparing for one of its busiest wedding seasons, with nearly 46 lakh weddings expected in 2025 and spending projected at around Rs 6.5 lakh crore. As celebrations grow grander, Indian weddings often resemble Bollywood productions with choreographed sangeets, elaborate décor and multi-day festivities. But with budgets crossing Rs 30–35 lakh for most weddings, and luxury ceremonies easily exceeding Rs 1 crore, families are pouring unprecedented amounts into these events. With such

The Grapevine-Colleyville Independent School District (GCISD) in Texas is evaluating the potential closure of multiple elementary schools as it grapples with a significant budget shortfall and a steady decline in student enrollment. District officials confirmed that two to three schools could be affected, triggering concern among parents and community members who fear their neighborhood schools may soon be shuttered. According to GCISD, the discussion is still in the early stages, a

Austin, Texas — The Austin Independent School District (AISD) is confronting a budget deficit exceeding $19.7 million and the looming possibility of state intervention if it fails to stabilize its finances and improve underperforming campuses. While no final decisions have been made, district officials have begun a series of public meetings to address community concerns, explain their financial situation, and present a preliminary plan aimed at long-term sustainability. The distri

SAN FRANCISCO — A federal judge in San Francisco has temporarily barred the Trump administration from firing federal employees during the ongoing government shutdown, delivering a legal setback to the White House’s plan to reduce the federal workforce amid a tense budget standoff in Washington. U.S. District Judge Susan Illston issued the emergency order on Wednesday, October 15, following lawsuits filed by labor unions representing thousands of federal employees. The judge’s

Austin Independent School District has unveiled a sweeping consolidation and boundary change proposal that could reshape public education in the city for years to come. Facing persistent enrollment decline, a multimillion-dollar budget shortfall, and accountability requirements, district leaders have laid out a plan that includes closing 13 schools, redrawing boundaries across nearly every campus, and repurposing several facilities to new academic programs. The plan, released Friday, immediately

Washington is on the edge of crisis as the US government faces its first shutdown in six years. With funding set to expire at midnight, Senate lawmakers rejected a last-ditch attempt to keep government operations running. The rejection followed a heated standoff between Democrats, Republicans, and President Donald Trump, whose return to the Oval Office has intensified political battles in Congress. Despite frantic ne

Performance & Range The Chevrolet Bolt (recent model specs) is powered by a ~200-hp electric motor and offers an EPA-rated range of about 259 miles on a full charge in optimal conditions. The Nissan Leaf, in its current generation, typically comes wit

Tarrant County commissioners have voted to approve a slightly lower property tax rate after days of disagreements and tension. With four commissioners present, the proposal passed by a 3-1 vote, setting the new rate at $0.1862 per $100 of valuation. This represents a small decrease of 0.69 percent from last year’s rate of $0.1875. For a home valued at $300,000, the cut amounts to annual savings of about four dollars. While the financial impact on individual homeowners is min

Finding a reliable and stylish car doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank. The Guide to the Best Budget-Friendly Cars of 2025 highlights the most affordable new models that combine practicality, efficiency, and modern features at prices everyday buyers can appreciate. With rising costs across the auto market, these vehicles prove that budget-friendly choices can still deliver value, comfort, and advanced technology.

In 2025, the SUV market continues to impress by offering models that combine modern tech, safety, comfort, and style — all while staying under the $30,000 threshold. These vehicles are ideal for buyers seeking strong value without compromising on features. The Chevrolet Trax brings solid value at an entry-level price point, with ample interior space and generous standard features, though performan

Google has once again become the focus of global attention after more than 200 contractors working on its artificial intelligence projects were laid off in recent weeks. The workers, employed through outsourcing company GlobalLogic, were responsible for tasks such as rating responses from Google’s Gemini chatbot, reviewing AI-generated summaries, and ensuring that the systems produced accurate and natural-sounding answers. Despite their specialized roles